The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) achieved another milestone as it celebrated its 41st anniversary on May 30, 2018. Since its creation in 30 May 1977, the Authority recognizes its fore bearers who have set the foundation that enabled the Authority to achieve the development it has today.

During the occasion, Secretary Emmanuel Piñol of the Department of Agriculture (DA) pointed out the critical contribution of the Agency in ensuring agricultural productivity and food sufficiency.

Sec. Piñol stressed that the eventual return of FPA under DA from the Office of the President, is an added responsbility and challenge for him yet it offers a promising opportunity in order for DA to achieve its mandate.

“The eventual return of FPA together with the National Food Authority (NFA) and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to DA will further strengthen the department’s capability to undertake its mission to provide available and affordable food for the Filipino people,” he said.

He added that the Authority must conduct a review of its regulations covering the pricing of fertilizers and pesticides; and strengthen its campaign against the entry of dangerous and harmful chemicals used as pesticides in the country.

It was on September 17, 2018 that FPA was officially brought back to DA by virtue of EO No. 62 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte.

Meanwhile, on May 29, a kick-off activity of said anniversary was organized by spending a day with the children of farmers in a farming community located in Plaridel, Lipa City, Batangas. FPA employees were welcomed by Lourdes Silva, the City Agriculturist of Lipa City and Engr. Pablito Balantac, Provincial Agriculturist of Batangas.

An information drive on the safe use of fertilizers and pesticides was simultaneously conducted along with activities such as raffle graw of gifts, and distribution of meals and school supplies to the kids. Some of the Authority’s partners in the industry and academe joined in the event.